How Can Snell's Law Help Calculate Apparent Depth in Water?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the apparent depth of a pond when viewed from above, using Snell's Law and the refractive index of water. The original poster presents a specific scenario with a real depth of 10 meters and a refractive index of 4/3.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between real depth and apparent depth, with one participant noting a formula that relates these quantities to the refractive index. Questions arise regarding the derivation of this relationship and the application of Snell's Law.

Discussion Status

The conversation includes attempts to apply the formula and explore the underlying principles of refraction. Some participants provide guidance on using Snell's Law and suggest examining the geometry of light rays, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on understanding the relationship between real and apparent depth, with participants questioning the assumptions and definitions involved in the problem setup.

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Any help how to approach this problem.

The depth of pond is 10m. What is the apparent depth for a person looking normally to the water surface? ( Refractive index )water =4/3.
 
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Make an attempt.
 
i solved it by using the forumale (real depth/ apparent depth ) = refractive index

apparent depth comes out to be 7.5m.

My problem is how to get the relation
(real depth/ apparent depth ) = refractive index
 
Use Snell's law of refraction and a little trig. (Examine the rays emanating from a point source a distance d under the surface. See how those rays refract. Consider small angles directly above the source.)
 
Last edited:

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